Indian benchmark indices began the week on a positive note, propelled by robust quarterly performances from HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank. This offset the impact of weaker earnings from Infosys and negative global market signals. Financial stocks spearheaded the gains, while auto and FMCG sectors experienced slight declines. Broader market indices also reflected the upward trend.

HDFC Securities suggests a Reduce stance on JK Cement, setting a target price of Rs 4,590 against the current market price of Rs 5,020. For the quarter ending December 31, 2024, JK Cement reported a consolidated total income of Rs 2974.83 crore and a net profit after tax of Rs 189.22 crore. Promoters hold a significant 45.

Amidst market volatility, high beta stocks experienced steeper declines, with many falling significantly from their peaks. Low beta stocks demonstrated greater resilience, declining less on average. Factors like global trade tensions, FII selling, and concerns over corporate earnings have contributed to market wobbles. However, recent FII buying and expectations of India s economic outperformance offer some tailwinds.

The rally was spearheaded by HDFC Bank, which jumped nearly 2% to a new 52-week high of ₹1,950.70. ICICI Bank followed closely, advancing around 1% to touch a record high of ₹1,436.00. The strong upward move came as brokerages reaffirmed their bullish outlook on both lenders, with robust earnings performance serving as the key catalyst.

JM Financial maintains a Buy call on ICICI Lombard, reducing the target price to Rs 2,150. The brokerage anticipates EPS growth and upward revisions as IFRS numbers are discussed. Despite a slight EPS reduction for FY26e/FY27e, the firm values the company at 32x FY27e EPS, citing inexpensive valuations for the market leader.

Gold prices have surged to record highs in 2025, driven by economic uncertainties and trade tensions. While technical indicators suggest overbought conditions and weakening momentum, analysts advise a cautious buy-on-dips strategy. The ongoing tariff war and potential for a global economic slowdown continue to support gold s safe-haven appeal, with currency fluctuations playing a crucial role in domestic prices.

Indian stock market analysts have pinpointed five stocks with promising short-term growth potential. Bharat Dynamics, BHEL, and GRM Overseas are projected to rally by up to 11%, driven by bullish technical patterns and strong trading volumes.

HCL Technologies is anticipated to experience a sequential revenue decrease in constant currency for Q4, aligning with industry trends due to seasonal factors in its products business. Despite this, the company s net profit is projected to rise by 8% year-on-year. Investors will closely monitor the FY26 guidance, decision-making slowdowns, and the impact of macroeconomic conditions on HCL Tech s overall performance.

The Indian rupee gained strength as the dollar faced pressure. This was due to concerns about the independence of the Federal Reserve. President Trump s criticism of Chair Jerome Powell fueled these worries. Other Asian currencies also saw gains. The dollar index hit a multi-year low. Investors are watching closely for any further moves affecting the Federal Reserve.

On Thursday, gold and silver ended lower in the domestic market, while international markets saw a mixed close on Friday.